Brittany Anthony Obituary, Death – Authorities are investigating a multi-vehicle accident that took place early Saturday morning on the northbound San Diego (405) Freeway in Sherman Oaks, resulting in the passing of a woman. The collision, which involved three vehicles, led to a temporary closure of the freeway for several hours as investigators worked to clear the scene and determine what led to the incident.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. on the northbound lanes of the 405 Freeway, just south of Burbank Boulevard and near the Ventura (101) Freeway interchange. Early findings suggest that the accident began when a Mazda sedan was involved in a solo crash and came to rest disabled in the traffic lanes, facing the wrong direction.
Shortly after, two other vehicles — a Ford SUV and a Toyota SUV — came into contact with the Mazda. The Ford reportedly sideswiped the disabled car, and moments later, the Toyota collided head-on with the Mazda. The force of the impact caused extensive damage to the vehicles involved.
Emergency responders, including CHP officers, firefighters, and paramedics, arrived within minutes of receiving the call. Despite their immediate response and rescue efforts, the driver of the Mazda was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities later identified her as 33-year-old Brittany Anthony, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Information about her city of residence was not released.
The driver of the Toyota SUV, identified as 37-year-old Mayra Alejandra Sanchez of Granada Hills, was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence. She was evaluated and treated for minor injuries before being booked for further investigation. The California Highway Patrol has emphasized that the case remains open, and additional details will be made available once the investigation is complete.
The crash prompted an extensive response from law enforcement and traffic management teams. A Sigalert was issued at 3:47 a.m., closing all northbound lanes of the 405 Freeway near the 101 interchange to allow authorities to examine the site, collect evidence, and safely remove the damaged vehicles. Tow trucks and cleanup crews worked for several hours to reopen the roadway, with normal traffic resuming around 8:10 a.m.
Investigators are now focusing on several key factors, including the initial cause of the Mazda’s solo crash, the sequence of impacts involving the other vehicles, and whether visibility or road conditions played any role. The CHP has not yet confirmed what caused the Mazda to lose control prior to the chain of collisions.
The stretch of freeway where the incident occurred is one of the busiest interchanges in Los Angeles, connecting two major routes frequently used by commuters. Accidents in the area often cause significant delays, especially when they occur during overnight or early morning hours when visibility can be reduced.
Authorities are urging drivers to remain alert, especially during nighttime travel, and to slow down in areas where disabled vehicles or flashing hazard lights may be present. They also emphasized the dangers of impaired driving, reminding the public that alcohol or drug use can greatly reduce reaction times and judgment behind the wheel.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials will review traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle data to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. The CHP has not released any additional information about the conditions of the other drivers or whether passengers were involved.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and awareness on busy highways. The community extends condolences to the family and friends of Brittany Anthony during this difficult time, while officials continue their work to uncover the full details of the crash.
